Sheppey United joint-manager Ian Batten targets more FA Cup magic as the Ites start their season with an extra preliminary round tie at Kennington

Joint-manager Ian Batten is chasing more FA Cup memories for Sheppey United this weekend.

The Ites get their season under way with a trip to Kennington in the extra preliminary round on Saturday (3pm).

Batten was a fan behind the goal when the Ites met League 2 Walsall in a televised first round proper tie three years ago.

He had the perfect view as James Bessey-Saldanha’s wonder strike gave Sheppey - then managed by his dad, Ernie - a 1-0 lead at Holm Park.

And while the Saddlers went on to win 4-1, it was a night - and a run - he will never forget.

Batten now finds himself in the dugout, alongside brother Ian, as Sheppey look to get their 26/27 campaign off to a winning start.

“It’s a big game. The FA Cup, especially in recent years for Sheppey, has been amazing,” said Batten.

“The run they had to the first round, and being a fan then, I saw it all and how much it meant for the club.

“I’m not saying we’re going to have another run like that - they’ve only done that once in their entire history - but getting through any round of the FA Cup is special.

“I was behind the goal that night against Walsall.

“I was right behind Bessey’s goal - it was just unbelievable.

“The FA Cup means a lot to me. To be able to have been there, not just for that game, but also the two Billericay games, it was the best experience I’ve had in football.”

The Batten brothers have their starting XI in mind to face Kennington, who play a level below the Ites in the Southern Counties East Premier Division.

Sheppey are making a point of targeting cup runs this season.

“Obviously the league is fantastic but we’re desperate for a cup run, whether that’s the FA Cup, the League Cup or the FA Trophy,” said Batten.

“We are going for the cups this season.